Specialist, SOAR, Temporary

Company: South Coast Botanic Garden Foundation
Location: Palos Verdes Peninsula
Posted on: April 3, 2026

Job Description:

Description South Coast Botanic Garden’s mission is to connect ALL to the wonders of nature and create offbeat experiences that inspire stewardship and sustainability. The 87-acre destination is an oasis of curated gardens and natural landscapes built atop a reclaimed landfill—serving as a powerful example of environmental renewal. From the Dorothy and John Bohannon Rose Garden to the Living Wall and immersive seasonal exhibits, the Garden offers guests unique opportunities to engage with nature. With continued growth and exciting new developments ahead, this is an exciting time to join a dynamic and evolving organization. South Coast Botanic Garden fosters a workplace culture where strategic focus and cultural health go hand in hand. Team members are collaborative, adaptable, and committed to supporting the Garden’s mission and delivering exceptional guest experiences. POSITION TITLE Specialist, SOAR (Temporary) REPORTING RELATIONSHIP Reports to: Manager, Learning & Engagement POSITION SUMMARY The Specialist, SOAR supports excellence in interpretation, hospitality, and guest service within the SOAR Tropical Butterfly Pavilion , now in its sixth season. This immersive, ticketed experience invites guests to encounter tropical butterflies up close in an environment designed to spark wonder, curiosity, and connection to nature. This role plays an important part in creating memorable, educational, and welcoming experiences for guests of all ages. The Specialist helps train, support, and collaborate with volunteers while modeling best practices in guest engagement, interpretation, and service. This position also helps ensure Pavilion operations run smoothly, safely, and in alignment with the Garden’s mission and guest experience standards. This is a fast-paced, evolving environment ideal for someone who is passionate about nature-based learning, enjoys creating positive guest interactions, and thrives in a highly interactive public-facing setting. Anticipated duration of assignment: April 2026 through October 2026. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Support the daily guest experience in the SOAR Tropical Butterfly Pavilion by delivering welcoming, high-quality interactions for guests, volunteers, and staff. Provide engaging and accurate interpretation that helps guests connect with the exhibit and the Garden’s mission. Ensure compliance with USDA regulations and Garden safety protocols, including monitoring entry/exit procedures and proper handling of butterfly species. Receive, inspect, and inventory butterfly shipments and related supplies with accuracy and care. Train, guide, and support volunteers to help ensure consistent, engaging, and educational guest interactions. Model exceptional hospitality, professionalism, and service excellence in a fast-paced, high-traffic environment. Maintain a safe, clean, and guest-ready work environment by following safety guidelines and demonstrating safe work practices. Monitor the overall condition and presentation of the Pavilion and promptly report maintenance, cleanliness, or safety concerns to the appropriate teams. Assist with light cleaning, minor upkeep, and general Pavilion readiness to maintain a polished and professional appearance. Communicate clearly and professionally across departments to support Pavilion operations and guest service needs. Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for guests of all ages and backgrounds. Perform other related duties as assigned in support of Pavilion operations, seasonal exhibits, workshops, and other Learning & Engagement initiatives. Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS Minimum of one year of experience in a nonprofit, educational, hospitality, guest service, or related setting preferred. Prior experience working or volunteering in the SOAR Tropical Butterfly Pavilion or a similar exhibit environment is strongly preferred. Strong verbal communication skills, with an interest in interpretive engagement, informal education, or public-facing guest experiences. Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, and the ability to remain calm, courteous, and composed in busy or high-pressure situations. Enthusiasm for nature and comfort engaging with butterflies, caterpillars, and other exhibit species. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment. Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to balance multiple priorities and adapt to changing needs. Positive attitude, flexibility, and a willingness to contribute wherever needed to support the guest experience. Passion for the Garden’s mission and a desire to create meaningful connections between people and nature. PHYSICAL / WORK ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout the workday, including extended periods outdoors. Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds. Ability to work in outdoor conditions and varying weather. Availability to work weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed. Must be available to work for the duration of the exhibit, Wednesday, April 22, 2026 through Thursday, October 15, 2026 . Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. POSITION DETAILS This is a temporary, part-time, non-exempt position, expected to work approximately 12 to 30 hours per week . Pay: $19.50 per hour Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received. Candidates are encouraged to apply early for full consideration. Application deadline: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 TENTATIVE SHIFT OPTIONS Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays & Select Weekday Holidays 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Thursdays (Additional Program Days) 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. ABOUT SOUTH COAST BOTANIC GARDEN South Coast Botanic Garden is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. We celebrate the unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of our team members and encourage applicants from all communities to apply.

Keywords: South Coast Botanic Garden Foundation, La Mirada , Specialist, SOAR, Temporary, Hospitality & Tourism , Palos Verdes Peninsula, California